Legend Nandu Natekar, the first Indian to win an international badminton title in 1956, died on Wednesday in Pune.
The 88-year-old was suffering from age-related problems. Natekar was a former World number three and considered one of the most popular athletes of his day. Natekar, who was born in Sangli, Maharashtra, has won over 100 national and international trophies over his 15-year career. In 1961, he was also awarded the renowned Arjuna Award.
He was survived by his son Gaurav and two daughters.
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“He passed away peacefully at home and we were all with him and he has been ailing for the last three months and he passed away peacefully,” Gaurav told to PTI.
He won 12 out of the 16 singles badminton matches and eight out of 16 in badminton doubles as part of the Indian team at the Thomas Cup between 1951 and 1963. He also had the distinction of leading the country in the tournament in 1959, 1961 and 1963.
He had also represented India at the 1965 Commonwealth Games in Jamaica.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the dmise.
“One of the towering icons of Indian badminton, Nandu Natekar leaves behind a rich legacy that we shall cherish forever. Six-time national champion and first Indian to win an international title in 1956, he shall be remembered fondly for his drives, drops and smashes,” Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
“It’s very sad to hear about the demise of Nandu Natekar. He gave Indians a belief that we also can win titles overseas with his win in Kuala Lumpur. Indian badminton will always be grateful for his contribution. The entire badminton community is with his family in this hour of grief and loss,” BAI general secretary Ajay Singhania said.